GLENDORA, Calif.,(christiansunite.com) -- A report released Thursday by the State Department shows that the number of foreign children adopted by Americans plunged 27% in the past year to the lowest level since 1996. Figures for fiscal 2009 showed 12,753 adoptions from abroad, down from 17,438 in 2008, and almost 45% lower than the all-time high of 22,884 in 2004.

Mendell L. Thompson (photo), President and CEO of America's Christian Credit Union, responded with the following and is available for comment:

"This report from the State Department is very shocking! We have experienced the joy of helping families adopt children from foreign countries. A member wanted to adopt a disadvantaged child from Nepal. She came to America's Christian CU, and with our help, was able to secure a loan that funded her trip to Nepal to finalize the adoption. It is stories like these that we need to see and hear more of. Countries that are placing restrictions on foreign adoptions are also telling these children that they have no future and no hope.

"Adopting a child is a special event for the Christian family. However, with the average cost for an adoption ranging from $5,000 to $40,000, many families are left wondering how to make it all work. And while many financial institutions do not understand the unique situation surrounding the adoption process, we choose to respond to those needs.

"America's Christian Credit Union was founded on a basic principle, which still brightly shines through all we do today. We are here 'To Reach, Serve and Teach.' And, as a part of continuing this effort and living out our mission, we are happy to offer Adoption Loans. It is our hope that through this unique loan program, we can play a big part in helping build Christian families both foreign and domestic."

Open for business Monday through Saturday and located in Glendora, CA, America's Christian CU proudly serves people and ministries. With nearly $500 million in total managed assets, America's Christian CU is a full-service financial institution in operation since 1958. For additional information, visit www.americaschristiancu.com.